morocco tour advnetures

Essaouira: Coastal Day Excursion

4.9 (127 verified reviews)
Essaouira, Atlantic Coast
10 Hours
All Year Round
Essaouira medina and blue boats at the vibrant fishing port
View from the historic Skala de la Ville ramparts in Essaouira
Fresh seafood grilling at the Essaouira fish market
Colorful souk and local artisan crafts in the Essaouira medina
Essaouira beach with windsurfers and kitesurfers
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Discover the Blue City's Charm

Escape the bustle of Marrakech for a day of sea breeze, history, and artistic inspiration in Essaouira. This relaxed coastal excursion takes you to the "Wind City of Africa," known for its vibrant blue-and-white medina, historic Portuguese ramparts, and fresh Atlantic air[citation:1][citation:10].

Your day includes hassle-free round-trip transportation from Marrakech[citation:10]. Enjoy scenic stops along the way, including a visit to a women's cooperative to see the traditional production of argan oil[citation:1][citation:10]. Upon arrival, explore the UNESCO-listed medina, its bustling souks filled with local crafts, and the lively fishing port at your own pace[citation:10].

This tour offers the perfect balance of guided insight and free time. Sample grilled seafood at the port, walk the historic Skala walls, or simply relax on the vast, windy beach[citation:10].

Hotel Pickup From Marrakech[citation:10]
Free Time Explore at Your Pace
Argan Oil Visit Women's Cooperative[citation:10]
Fresh Seafood At the Port (Optional)

Your Day in Essaouira

Morning: Scenic Drive & Argan Oil Discovery

7:30 - 8:00 AM: Pickup from your Marrakech hotel or riad in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle[citation:10].

8:00 - 11:00 AM: Enjoy a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour drive west towards the Atlantic coast[citation:10]. Admire the changing landscape from arid plains to argan forests. Stop at a women's cooperative to witness the traditional process of making argan oil—a unique Moroccan product[citation:1][citation:10].

Midday: Exploring the Medina & Port

11:00 AM: Arrive in Essaouira. Your driver will drop you near the medina entrance and provide a map and recommendations.

11:00 AM - 1:30 PM: Free time to explore. Wander through the UNESCO-listed medina with its blue-and-white walls, browse souks for handicrafts and spices, and walk along the historic Skala de la Ville ramparts for stunning ocean views[citation:10]. Visit the vibrant fishing port to see the colorful boats and enjoy a fresh grilled seafood lunch (own expense).

Afternoon: Beach Time & Return to Marrakech

1:30 - 4:00 PM: Continue your discovery. Relax on the expansive Essaouira Beach, watch the windsurfers, or explore more of the medina's art galleries and cafes[citation:10].

4:00 PM: Meet at the designated point for the return journey to Marrakech[citation:1].

4:00 - 7:00 PM: Comfortable drive back to Marrakech. Drop-off at your accommodation around 7:00 PM[citation:1].

Traveler Reviews

Claire & Mark UK • November 2025

"A perfect escape from the heat of Marrakech. The sea breeze was wonderful. We loved the free time to explore the medina and eat fresh fish at the port. Very well-organized."

Verified Booking • Couple
Sophie M. France • October 2025

"The visit to the argan oil cooperative was fascinating. Essaouira itself is beautiful and relaxed. Ideal day trip if you want a taste of the Moroccan coast."

Verified Booking • Solo Traveler

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the price?

No, lunch is not included to give you maximum flexibility[citation:10]. You will have free time in Essaouira to choose where and what to eat. We highly recommend trying the incredibly fresh grilled seafood at the port, which is a highlight for many travelers. Budget approximately €10-15 per person for a good meal.

How much time do we actually get in Essaouira?

You will have approximately 5 hours of free time in Essaouira. This is ample time to explore the main sights: the medina, the port, the ramparts, enjoy lunch, and even have time to relax on the beach[citation:10]. The itinerary is designed to be relaxed, not rushed.

What should I wear and bring?

Essaouira is windy! Even on hot days, the sea breeze can be strong[citation:10]. We recommend:

  • • A light jacket or sweater
  • • Comfortable walking shoes for the medina's cobbled streets
  • • Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen[citation:1]
  • • A camera to capture the blue-and-white beauty of the city

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